People at the orphanage where the church members had visited were saddened by the tragic accident.

Witness said the scene was horrific.

"They kept saying someone is trapped up under the water," the woman said. "As I went to the other side of the van there were people laying on the ground, screaming and hollering. Just blood everywhere."

The First Missionary Baptist Church released a statement:The First Missionary Baptist Church family is deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred on May 20th, 2018 while our church members and friends were returning from serving at the Oxford Children's Home. While we are thankful that most everyone survived, our hearts are broken as our long time Deacon and faithful member William Clayton Sr. did not. Although, we know of the loss of one church family member, we ask that you please grant us grace and privacy as we counsel with our family members.

Our sympathy is also extended to the family of the driver of the other vehicle who also lost her life. The coming weeks and months will be difficult and we are committed to facing this together. We will give the Clayton family and all of those who remain with us our love and support as they grieve and work toward their healing. Let us remember to pray and be present so that our sisters and brothers may know that God is with them during these trying times.